Valentine Day hearts printed on cards, balloons and even heart shaped candy reminds of the love of family and friends. But it is the symbol of the Cross that reminds us what love really is about. A love extended to the all people in that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

This week in our church we are studying Matthew 11. Let me share a few insights.

1. It breaks God’s heart when we disregard Him. In this passage Jesus expresses his broken heart because of some of the towns around Galilee. The people had heard His message of forgiveness, seen the miracles and yet did not acknowledge The Christ at all. They ignored Him. They were indifferent to the One who makes a difference. How about you ? Are you ignoring God in any way? How can you include Christ in your daily life?

2. The people were too prideful to see the Truth. Rabbis, scribes and others could not see past their intellectual pride to acknowledge the Messiah. Jesus said we must have child-like faith…a trusting love for Him. The Gospel does not reside in our minds but in our hearts where it flourishes growing our minds, our actions and our relationships. Is Jesus in your heart or has He become the object of an intellectual debate that wars within you or even with others?

3. Love carries the burdens. Jesus did not come to bring us more religion. His message is one of true love. He says, Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest….For my yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

I’ve seen spouses care for one another or adult children care for their parents. The burden of care may have been overwhelming and tremendous for those outside of family. But for the caregiver, the burden was light. That is what Jesus is saying to us in this passage. When LOVE is the catalyst for our actions, the burdens of life seem light.